Key Takeaways
- Innovations and global partnerships are crucial for developing India’s food processing sector.
- The ‘Anvesh 2026’ conference highlights India’s commitment to a competitive processed food ecosystem.
- India aims to transition from food security to food leadership in the global market.
Innovation and Global Collaboration in Food Processing
Union Minister for Food Processing Industries Chirag Paswan has emphasized that technology-driven innovations and international partnerships are vital to advancing the food processing sector in India. Speaking at the ‘International Conference on Advanced Next Generation Vision for Emerging and Sustainable Healthy Foods (Anvesh 2026)’ held at the National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management (NIFTEM-Kundli), Paswan stated that Indian companies adopting global processes will significantly contribute to realizing the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision outlined by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Paswan highlighted the essential role of being at the forefront of technology for India’s 1.4 billion citizens. He stressed the need to relay innovations and research developments to farmers in rural areas to enhance the sector’s reach. The Anvesh 2026 conference serves as a vital platform for investors, researchers, and entrepreneurs, showcasing India’s commitment to establishing a competitive processed food ecosystem. The event features over 100 speakers, including 33 international experts from 25 countries.
The Minister noted the increasing consumer demand for ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook products, underscoring the impact of changing lifestyles. He mentioned that India has allowed 100 percent Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the trading of domestically produced food products since over a decade ago.
Avinash Joshi, Secretary of the Ministry of Food Processing Industries, reinforced the need for India to evolve from “food security” to “food leadership.” He pointed out that as India’s economy grows, the food processing sector must focus on creating global value by converting agricultural surplus into innovation, opportunities, and competitiveness. The goal is to double the country’s food processing output within the next six to seven years.
Dr. H.S. Oberoi, Director of NIFTEM-Kundli, elaborated on the importance of technology in defining India’s position in the global food value chain. He remarked that India’s ascent isn’t merely about volume but rather about scientific precision, nutritional intelligence, and innovation-driven enterprises. This modern approach aims to enhance India’s global standing in the food processing landscape while addressing the evolving needs of consumers.
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